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Hybrid Minivan US Availability?

The recent post about a hybrid that can run for short distances using an overnight electrical charge is very exciting. I can only hope that the delay in getting a hybrid Sienna on the market is related to adding features such as this and implementing the newest battery technologies.

Hybrid Minivan US Availability?

A couple of folks here seem to think the Estima is the equivalent of the US Sienna. Actually the Estima is the vehicle sold overseas as the Previa but the new Previa (2000 onwards) was never sold in the US or Canada although it is available in lhd as it is sold in France. There are various engine and transmission options including a V6 and a diesel as well as the hybrid and 4wd is available on other engines, not just the hybrid's electric rear axle.

A few have escaped from their homeland (the hybrid has only ever been sold in Japan and hence is rhd only) and one was for sale in Jamaica recently.

Hybrid Minivan US Availability?

The iVTEC, which shuts down one bank of cylinders, ie, 3 out of 6 cylinders, is available beginning the redesigned (and already available) 2005 Odysseys. It is supposed to add 1mpg city and 3mpg highway.

Hybrid Minivan US Availability?

Maybe this horrid increase in gas prices will push the market a bit more. I have been looking at minivans anyway, so I would trade my big a$$ SUV for a hybrid minivan NOW! I so regret getting it...sigh...